Coffee Supplies Rise While Costs Weather Threaten Gains

Improved coffee output could strengthen the U.S. supply, but input costs and weather risks keep the outlook uncertain.

Mix of coffee beans and coffee tree blossom for background_Photo by nimon_t via AdobeStock_253446717.jpg

The process of coffee production from blossoms to beans.

Photo by nimon_t via Adobe Stock

NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — U.S. coffee buyers may see improved supply from Colombia and Costa Rica next season, but USDA forecasts show weather and input costs still threaten recovery. The United States remains the leading export market for both countries.

USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service projects Colombia’s 2026/27 production at 13.4 million 60-kilogram bags, up 7.2 percent after excessive rain cut the current crop. Exports are also forecast at 13.4 million bags.

Costa Rica’s production is forecast to rise 3.5 percent to 1.2 million bags, while exports reach 1.06 million bags. The United States accounts for more than 40 percent of Colombian exports and nearly 40 percent of Costa Rican shipments.

Growers still face pressure. Colombia reports falling coffee prices alongside rising fertilizer and labor costs. Costa Rica faces higher fertilizer and fuel costs, a strong local currency that reduces growers’ returns, and possible El Niño-related dryness.

Despite larger crops, ending stocks are forecast to be lower in both countries, leaving limited protection against harvest disruptions.

Farm-Level Takeaway: Improved coffee output could strengthen the U.S. supply, but input costs and weather risks keep the outlook uncertain.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
Related Stories
Ohio farmer Chris Gibbs joins us to discuss planting progress, weather conditions, and how geopolitical tensions are clouding his growing season outlook as input concerns continue to escalate.
This case could influence how much leverage grain shippers have when a preferred rail outlet is blocked or priced too high.
Global soybean competition is moving deeper into crush capacity, logistics, and value-added product control.
Researchers say stronger rootstocks are helping growers fight citrus greening.

Tony St. James joined the RFD-TV talent team in August 2024, bringing a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to RFD-TV and Rural Radio Channel 147 Sirius XM. In addition to his role as Market Specialist (collaborating with Scott “The Cow Guy” Shellady to provide radio and TV audiences with the latest updates on ag commodity markets), he hosts “Rural America Live” and serves as talent for trade shows.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Bridge payments are helping, but many producers still face losses and tight margins. AEM’s Curt Blades joins us to discuss how the current farm economy is pressuring equipment demand.
Rising ethanol stocks and softer gasoline demand bear watching, but stronger blending activity and exports offered some support.
Corn export demand remains supportive, but weak pork and rice sales show uneven global demand trends.
Rising poultry supply is pressuring prices despite steady demand.
Brazil’s ethanol growth could shift the corn trade.
Fuel costs are shaping food and demand patterns.